Just below the surface of our oceans, where the sun’s powerful rays give way to life, lies vibrant coral reefs—one of our planet’s most delicate, valuable and diverse ecosystems. Beyond their breathtaking beauty, these habitats are a living indicator of our oceans’ health and serve as a crucially important environment for thousands of marine species.

The Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second-largest reef system, sits majestically in front of our home in Tulum, creating a deep-rooted connection to the world of coral reefs. In 2021, our Director of Beyond Sustainability Olmo Torres turned this awe and appreciation into action through the creation of our Tulum Reef Regeneration Project. 

Olmo recounts the story of how this initiative started, “In November 2021, I made an exciting discovery—an intact and healthy coral community. From this community, we started collecting fragments that have naturally broken off due to waves and storms, known as “opportunity fragments.” These fragments, which would otherwise remain buried in the sand, were given a chance at survival.” 

Alongside Oceanus, a non-profit organization specializing in coral regeneration, Olmo transported these initial fragments to a specific location that would come to be named “Blue Hope” in honor of Dr. Sylvia Earle and her designated Hope Spots around the world. Within two weeks, over 200 coral colonies were planted, and since then, we’ve been working towards our initial goal of planting 1,000 corals. 

Over the past years, with a clear mission and ambitious goals, this initiative has sought to breathe life back into the coral reefs of Tulum, strengthening their resilience and promoting the recovery of biodiversity. Through our Habitas RISE brand contribution and fundraising efforts, such as concerts and guest donations, we’ve been able to provide funds to Oceanus, allowing us to be active and consistent participants in the regeneration process. Olmo adds, “Our Habitas stands apart from traditional hospitality companies as it operates on a disruptive business model, actively participating in and contributing to local communities.” 

However, our commitment does not end there. The second phase of the Tulum Reef Regeneration Project, slated to commence in 2024, is even more ambitious. With a determination to scale up our impact, we are inviting local businesses and the world citizens living in Tulum to join us to achieve the transplantation, caring, and monitoring of  5,000 coral colonies each year, ensuring the continual growth and restoration of Tulum’s vibrant underwater ecosystems as part of the UN Decade of Restoration. To further support the health and sustainability of these newly established coral colonies, comprehensive follow-up and maintenance will be provided, ensuring their long-term success.

Through our work, we are giving back to all that the Caribbean Sea has given us and recognizing the importance of these vital ecosystems. By rejuvenating Tulum’s reefs, Our Habitas Tulum is not only preserving the ecological balance but also safeguarding the livelihoods of local communities who rely on these natural wonders.

To further bring awareness to this initiative, Olmo, our co-founder Eduardo Castillo, and a group of friends went on a coral restoration free dive expedition to our Blue Hope Reforestation Site this past June for World Oceans Day. Olmo describes the experience of planting coral: “It is a life-changing experience. You feel blue hope! I feel inspired to continue taking action to change reality in a positive way. The moment you plant your first coral you become one with the ocean and the planet. It’s an awakening moment when you realize this is a Blue Planet. It’s like the Overview Effect but from within the planet and the self.” 

In addition to an awareness campaign for World Oceans Day, this outing acted as a pilot for a brand experience available for guests staying at Our Habitas Tulum. Our community can support the project through donations or “adopting corals,” which can be given as gifts to family or friends. A snorkeling experience to visit the Blue Hope Site is now available and next year we will offer coral gardening and coral planting boot camps.

The Tulum Reef Regeneration Project serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring us all to take action in the face of today’s environmental challenges. It reminds us that, despite the obstacles we may face, the power of collective action and dedication can restore paradise. Together, we must amplify this initiative to ensure that future generations can marvel at the vibrant colors and life teeming beneath the waves.

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